Samuel Travis Sicilia (born February 1, 1986) is an American mixed martial artist currently fighting in the featherweight division of the Ultimate Fighting Championship. Sicilia began training in MMA in 2007, taking his first amateur fights late in the year before turning professional shortly after. After his first pro win he took a nearly four year break from fighting. He returned in 2011, and went 9-1 fighting for several regional promotions in the north-western United States.In February 2012, it was revealed that Sicilia was selected to be a participant on The Ultimate Fighter Live. Sicilia defeated Dominick Cruz training partner, Erin Beach, via an eight second KO to move into the Ultimate Fighter house, and become an official cast member. Sicilia was selected as the second pick (third overall) by Dominick Cruz to take part on Team Cruz. In the first round of the tournament, Sicilia was selected to fight former Bellator Fighting Championships fighter, Chris Saunders. Sicilia lost the fight via split decision after two rounds. The decision was heavily disputed by many, including UFC president Dana White who claimed, “I think Sicilia got robbed of the opportunity of going to a third round, though. But great fight.” Sicilia made his UFC debut at The Ultimate Fighter: Live Finale on June 1, 2012 in Las Vegas, Nevada against TUF cast mate,Cristiano Marcello. He won the fight via KO in the second round. After the win Sicilia was more than excited to begin his journey in the UFC.